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DASH Cuts and Fare Hike in Effect; Rides Now 35 Cents

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — Plan to carry around some extra dimes when making your way around Downtown.

The first fare hike in the history of the DASH circulator system went into effect on Sunday, the price of a ride rising from a quarter to 35 cents.

Fares are already scheduled to rise to 50 cents on July 1, 2011.

Also ended are services on a pair of Downtown DASH routes: DASH C, which serves South Park; DASH DD, which offers a weekend loop; and the Central City East DASH, which serves Skid Row. A total of six routes are being cancelled citywide, while six will be modified or have reduced offerings.

The moves are all part of a package of measures intended to close a budget deficit projected to reach $350 million over the next ten years. Fares on Commuter Express buses are also going up, while Cityride offerings are seeing cutbacks.